Helianthus annuus Sunflower (Compositae)

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Helianthus annuus
Sunflower
(1 Page of 5)

The Helianthus annuus plant species is found in Western N. America. An occasional garden escape in Britain. It is a member of the Compositae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Sunflower.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Helianthus annuus
Common Name:  Sunflower
Family:  Compositae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  The growing plant can accumulate nitrates, especially when fed on artificial fertilizers[76]. The pollen or plant extracts may cause allergic reactions[222].

Mature Height:  3   Mature Width:  0.3

Habitat:  Open dry or moderately moist soils on the plains[60].

Medicinal Information: A tea made from the leaves is astringent, diuretic and expectorant, it is used in the treatment of high fevers[222]. The crushed leaves are used as a poultice on sores, swellings, snakebites and spider bites[222, 257]. The leaves are harvested as the plant comes into flower and are dried for later use[238]. A tea made from the flowers is used in the treatment of malaria and lung ailments[222, 257]. The flowering head and seeds are febrifuge, nutritive and stomachic[7]. The seed is also considered to be diuretic and expectorant[4, 218, 222]. It has been used with success in the treatment of many pulmonary complaints[4]. A decoction of the roots has been used as a warm wash on rheumatic aches and pains[257].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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